In Nigeria, a vast majority of 66 million people lack access to safe drinking water, relying instead on unimproved sources like unprotected wells or water bodies. This dire situation has led to 88% of the nation’s disease burden stemming from poor Sanitation and hygiene practices, disproportionately affecting children the most. Research findings show that Nigeria ranks as the second-highest country in the world for under-five mortality caused by diarrhea, resulting in more than 151,700 deaths annually. Long-term displacement exacerbates the issue.
When conflict drives people from their homes, they become Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and are frequently placed in overcrowded, poorly equipped camps. In these environments, infections can easily spread, and the lack of proper hygiene facilities and supplies puts their health at risk, making diseases like Cholera more prevalent. In 2015, a shining light of hope emerged for the people living in the Durumi IDP camp. The Rotary Club made a positive impact by setting up two water tanks, aiming to reduce the challenges that the camp residents were facing. These tanks were just a small part of the club’s larger goal of enhancing living standards and enhancing Public Health in communities in need.
NIWE implemented a project during the 2018/2019 World Water Day.
By implementing this program, the goal was to alleviate the hardships faced by those living in the camp while also enhancing their ability to access fundamental water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services. While this endeavour initially provided a welcome relief to the water shortage, it quickly became inadequate to meet the needs of the expanding population due to a damaged tank that remained unfixed. In an effort to address water scarcity at the IDP camp, the Nigerian Institution of Water Engineers (NIWE) implemented a project during the 2018/2019 World Water Day.
The installation of a water tank was a step towards improving access to clean water and WASH facilities for camp residents. Engr. Dr. Marvin Paul Agwoko, the chairman of NIWE, stated that the WASH project implemented in the camp has brought about a remarkable enhancement in hygiene standards and the general well-being of the inhabitants. More than 70% of the population in the camp has benefitted from the project, gaining improved access to clean water, upgraded sanitation facilities, and valuable knowledge on hygiene practices.
Implementing long-term and thorough interventions is essential.
As a result, the camp now benefits from a cleaner living environment and a decrease in waterborne illnesses. It is essential to implement long-term and thorough interventions in order to meet the WASH needs of IDP camps. Equipping IDP communities with proper hygiene knowledge is vital for enhancing health outcomes and preventing the spread of diseases within camp environments. The NCDC has recently warned the public about the increasing cholera cases in Nigeria, especially with the rainy season picking up. Limited Infrastructure in IDP Camps forces many residents to use unsafe water sources, putting them at a higher risk for cholera due to overcrowding.
To celebrate the World Water Day in 2024, the Nigerian Institution of Water Engineers, along with APWEN, FCT Water Board, Rotary International and Nigeria Health Watch, came together to provide Education on crucial WASH services to the residents of Durumi IDP Camp under the theme Water for Peace. The educational programs emphasized the importance of menstrual hygiene, personal cleanliness, and the upkeep of a sanitary surrounding. Furthermore, the camp community received training on creating their own reusable sanitary products, cleaning products, and personal care items as a way to both meet their own needs and potentially earn money.
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Additionally, essential items like sanitary pads, soap, hand sanitizer, masks, and buckets were handed out to support the residents. Although progress has been achieved in enhancing the water, sanitation, and hygiene situation at Durumi IDP camp, continuous assistance and long-term solutions are essential to secure enduring advantages for the inhabitants. Water access is a fundamental human entitlement, thus it is imperative to implement measures that guarantee access to WASH facilities for displaced populations in Nigeria.